And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Bethaven, on the east of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai.
This section features a detailed cross-reference designed to enrich your understanding of the Scriptures.
Below, you will find carefully selected verses that echo the themes and teachings related to Joshua 7:2 KJV. Click on any image to explore detailed analyses of related Bible verses and uncover deeper theological insights.
Joshua 18:12 (KJV) » And their border on the north side was from Jordan; and the border went up to the side of Jericho on the north side, and went up through the mountains westward; and the goings out thereof were at the wilderness of Bethaven.
1 Samuel 14:23 (KJV) » So the LORD saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Bethaven.
Hosea 4:15 (KJV) » Though thou, Israel, play the harlot, yet let not Judah offend; and come not ye unto Gilgal, neither go ye up to Bethaven, nor swear, The LORD liveth.
1 Samuel 13:5 (KJV) » And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from Bethaven.
Matthew 10:16 (KJV) » Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
Proverbs 24:6 (KJV) » For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Proverbs 20:18 (KJV) » Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.
Genesis 12:8 (KJV) » And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD.
Nehemiah 11:31 (KJV) » The children also of Benjamin from Geba dwelt at Michmash, and Aija, and Bethel, and in their villages.
Joshua 2:1 (KJV) » And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there.
Joshua 12:9 (KJV) » The king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai, which is beside Bethel, one;
Genesis 28:19 (KJV) » And he called the name of that place Bethel: but the name of that city was called Luz at the first.
Joshua 7:2 reads: "And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Bethaven, on the east side of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country."
This verse takes place after the Israelites have successfully crossed the Jordan River and taken possession of Jericho, marking an important moment in their conquest of the Promised Land.
Meaning and Insights
This verse signifies the strategic planning involved in the Israelites' military campaigns. Joshua, as the leader, demonstrates his role in coordinating actions, emphasizing the importance of reconnaissance before engaging in battle.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary:
Henry discusses the leadership qualities of Joshua, noting that he relied on both God’s guidance and human agents to fulfill the divine command. The act of sending men to explore Ai reflects wisdom, as thorough preparation is key to success.
Albert Barnes' Notes:
Barnes emphasizes the necessity of assessing the enemy’s strength. By viewing the land, the spies could gather important information regarding Ai's defenses and vulnerability, which would influence their tactics moving forward.
Adam Clarke's Commentary:
Clarke suggests that Joshua's action illustrates a practical approach to warfare in the ancient world. This preparation shows the need for foresight and planning in executing a plan that involves trust in God but also sound military strategy.
Bible Cross-References
This verse can be cross-referenced with several other scriptures that highlight themes of leadership, the importance of preparation, and faith in God, including:
Deuteronomy 1:22-23 – Seeking counsel and sending scouts.
Joshua 1:9 – Encouragement for Joshua to be strong and courageous.
1 Samuel 30:8 – David's inquiry of the Lord before battle.
James 1:5 – Asking God for wisdom in decision-making.
Proverbs 20:18 – Preparing for war through counsel.
Proverbs 24:6 – Wisdom and guidance are essential for success in endeavors.
Matthew 10:16 – Being wise as serpents while being innocent like doves.
Luke 14:31-32 – Evaluating the strength before engaging in conflict.
Philippians 4:6-7 – Taking all matters to God in prayer for His guidance.
Acts 1:24 – Seeking direction through prayer and guidance.
Thematic Connections
The verse serves as a launchpad for several thematic connections within the Bible:
Preparation and Strategy: Highlighted through military campaigns and spiritual endeavors.
Leadership: Joshua’s example is echoed in the lives of other leaders throughout the Scripture.
Faith and Inquiry: The integration of faith with practical steps in seeking God's will.
Application of Insights
For modern readers, Joshua 7:2 encourages individuals to approach challenges with thoughtful planning and to seek divine guidance through prayer.
The text reminds believers to combine their faith with action, as relying solely on spiritual conviction without practical steps may lead to failure.
Conclusion
In summary, Joshua 7:2 sheds light on the balance of faith and pragmatism in leadership and decision-making. By understanding the significance of this verse and its connections through cross-referencing, individuals can grasp a deeper insight into the complexities of following God’s will in both historical and contemporary contexts.
